Pediatricians Say New Year’s Resolutions Can Benefit Kids
New Year’s resolutions aren’t just for grown-ups anymore. According to CNN, The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents and guardians sit down with kids to help them pick out some goals to work toward in 2022. They say kids can learn to focus on healthy habits and new goals just like adults and that making resolutions can help kids get motivated and give them a sense of accomplishment. Personally, as a mom I don’t know if I would call it a “resolution” with the negative connotation that the word comes with that word but I LOVE the idea of setting goals for the year!
The key is choosing goals that are specific and feasible. Latham says the more specific, the better, and that the goal has to be something the child values. Need some ideas? Try these age-appropriate suggestions from the American Academy of Pediatrics:
Preschool:
- I will try hard to clean up my toys by putting them where they belong.
- I will try new foods when I can, especially all the different colors of vegetables.
- I will do my best to be nice to other kids who need a friend or look sad or lonely.
Ages five to 12:
- I will drink water every day.
- I will try to find a physical activity (like playing tag, dancing, or riding my bike) or a sport I like and do it at least three times a week.
- I will try to save time to read for fun.
Teens:
- I will do my best to take care of my body through fun physical activity.
- I will try to get 8 to 10 hours of sleep that my body needs each night.
- I will give some of my time to help others, working with community groups or others that help people in need.
Source: CNN
